NXT TakeOver events have delivered some of the greatest matches in WWE history, blending top-tier talent, storytelling, and high stakes. These iconic bouts showcase brutal rivalries, emotional encounters, and pure in-ring brilliance, often defining a wrestler’s career. From the rise of future superstars to unforgettable women’s division showdowns, certain matches stand out for their significance, crowd reactions, and execution. Here are the 5 Best NXT TakeOver Matches that have elevated the brand and left a lasting impact on WWE fans worldwide.

1. Johnny Gargano vs. Andrade “Cien” Almas – NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia (2018)

One of the most iconic matches in NXT history is the Johnny Gargano vs. Andrade “Cien” Almas NXT Championship clash at TakeOver: Philadelphia in 2018. This encounter is celebrated for its masterful storytelling and in-ring psychology, with Gargano playing the underdog hero against Almas’s confident champion persona, backed by manager Zelina Vega. The match unfolded with a slow build, escalating into high-paced drama filled with near falls and breathtaking moments. Despite Gargano’s heart and determination, Almas ultimately secured victory with a Hammerlock DDT, cementing his status as a top-tier performer while elevating Gargano as a fan favorite.

2. The Revival vs. DIY – NXT TakeOver: Toronto (2016)

The NXT Tag Team Championship match between The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) and DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) at TakeOver: Toronto in November 2016 is considered a defining moment in tag team wrestling. The match delivered a stellar narrative, contrasting The Revival’s hard-hitting, technical style with DIY’s high-flying and resilient approach. Filled with near falls, dramatic twists, and intense teamwork, the bout kept fans on the edge of their seats. After a fierce back-and-forth, The Revival countered Gargano’s finishing move into the Shatter Machine, retaining their titles and cementing their legacy as one of NXT’s greatest tag teams.

3. Tommaso Ciampa vs. Johnny Gargano – NXT TakeOver: New Orleans (2018)

The unsanctioned match between Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano at TakeOver: New Orleans stands as one of NXT’s most emotionally charged encounters. Once best friends, their bitter rivalry culminated in a brutal, dramatic showdown. Gargano, seeking redemption, faced off against Ciampa in a tense, personal battle filled with strikes, weapons, and jaw-dropping moments. Their visceral hatred was clear, with the match spilling outside the ring and featuring high-impact spots, including Gargano’s stunning dive from the stage. Ultimately, Ciampa’s brutal tactics secured him the win, leaving fans with an unforgettable story of friendship and betrayal.

4. Finn Balor vs. Kevin Owens – NXT TakeOver: R Evolution (2014)

NXT TakeOver: R Evolution in December 2014 marked a pivotal moment with the ascension of Finn Balor and Kevin Owens. Their NXT Championship match was a thrilling contrast of Balor’s high-flying agility against Owens’ brute power. Balor, fresh off his debut, quickly gained popularity with his unique persona, while Owens was relentless in his pursuit of the title. The match captivated fans with its intense storytelling, showcasing Balor’s resilience and Owens’ aggression. Balor ultimately triumphed with his Coup de Grace, capturing the NXT Championship and solidifying his place in NXT history.

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5. Io Shirai vs. Candice LeRae – NXT TakeOver: Toronto (2019)

NXT TakeOver: Toronto 2019 delivered a standout women’s match between Io Shirai and Candice LeRae, showcasing fierce competition and technical mastery. Their ongoing rivalry, with Shirai’s darker persona clashing against LeRae’s resilience, set the stage for an intense showdown. Both women impressed with high-impact moves and innovative counters, thrilling fans from start to finish. Shirai’s relentless aggression and LeRae’s determination made for a captivating battle, highlighted by Shirai’s stunning moonsault. In the end, Shirai secured the victory, cementing this match as a modern classic and elevating the importance of NXT’s women’s division.

Conclusion

NXT TakeOver events have fostered some of the most compelling matches in wrestling history, highlighting the best in athletic competition coupled with storytelling. The five matches outlined above showcase the richness of talent and creativity that NXT has to offer. Each encounter stands as a testament to the athletes’ commitment to their craft and the emotional connections that wrestling can create with its audience. As NXT continues to evolve, the legacy of these matches will remain a benchmark for aspiring superstars and serve as a point of nostalgia for fans of the brand.